DQI Introduction

The DQI is an assessment tool used to evaluate the design quality of virtually any building type. It is a "Vitruvian" assessment, measuring design in the broadest sense, focusing on everything from a building's Functionality, to its Build Quality, to the Impact the building has on its occupants and its surroundings.

Through the administration of a brief questionnaire, the DQI process converts individual subjective perceptions into objective measurable results. The quantification of these "design intangibles" is a unique feature to the DQI and helps takes the guesswork out of designing or evaluating a building.

Many public and private sector users are finding value in the DQI metrics for strategic planning and improved decision making. The survey-based tool is used to capture the voice of all project stakeholders, quantify design intangibles, and validate the design of a building or space from start to finish. For new buildings or renovations, it helps:

1. Establish consensus on design priorities at the onset of the project balancing the needs of all stakeholders involved to achieve success.

2. Provide a framework and formal method to continually evaluate and monitor priorities throughout a projects duration.

3. Improve project scoping, scheduling, and management. The DQI makes the elements of good design visible through measurable and reportable statistics.

Developed in the UK with leading involvement of Sunand Prasad (current RIBA President), the DQI has already been applied to over 1,000 projects by more than 12,000 people. The DQI is now being introduced to the US market and a nationwide network of facilitators is currently being trained to establish the DQI as the industry standard for measuring good design.

ABOUT DQI USA

DQI USA, LLC is a socially responsible business dedicated to improving the quality and productivity of our built environment through the DQI. The company was founded with a vision that better designed buildings are fundamentally more valuable and a better use of resources. History shows that poor design results in high costs and low value for money. By capitalizing on the economic, social and environmental benefits of improved building design, the case can be made to unlock potential value, increase economic activity and enhance productivity. In short, investing in high quality buildings can improve the welfare of business and society.